"I don't believe that because I'm at the top of the tree that I shouldn't be in touch with every area of the business," said Alan Purvis

MetroMail sent all of its supervisors and floor managers on an away day – leaving managing director Alan Purvis in charge of all operations at the Seaham facility.

Founded over 25 years ago, MetroMail has been headquartered at the 140,000sqft base for five years, where heavy investments have been made in installing the latest industry technology.

And Mr Purvis said he prides himself on keeping in touch with every aspect of the business, meaning his team could take time away and leave him to cover the floor.

He said: “Investing time in our employees to make sure they are trained to the highest standards is a vital element of our growth plans.

“But that applies to me as well and I don’t believe that because I’m at the top of the tree that I shouldn’t be in touch with every area of the business and the teams that make this business the success it is.

“It would have been the easy option for me to join in the team building day but I saw it as the perfect way to experience the business from the shop floor rather than my office.”

As a former apprentice, Mr Purvis has put in place a staffing structure which means no employee is more than two promotions away from his job.

He added: “We are committed to investing in talented people and if they show a desire to learn and the work ethic we’re after, there will be the opportunity to progress.

“I started my career as an apprentice and over the years worked hard to move up the career ladder.

“I was made MetroMail managing director at the age of 35 so I fully appreciate how important it is for people to feel valued and important, regardless of their level of seniority.”